​The BC Cancer Excellence Awards highlight the incredible individuals and teams who work to ensure that British Columbians receive world-class, patient-centred cancer screening, treatment and support, or benefit from new discoveries that are helping change the face of cancer.

Julie Nager is a radiation therapist at BC Cancer - Surrey who received a BC Cancer Excellence Award in the category of Patient Care Champion (nominated by patients). Julie is a shining example of a Patient Care Champion who has touched many lives throughout her 18-year career at BC Cancer. Her patients say she treats them like family — always providing helpful advice and literature, making sure patients feel cared for and being by their side every step of the way. 

Julie received multiple patient nominations for her work, each of them touching as patients shared the impact Julie has made in their care. Below are a couple of heartwarming quotes submitted by her patients:

"Julie has been an exceptional patient care professional. Each and every time that Julie is one of my care providers in Radiation, she is attentive, asking how I am and offering suggestions to improve my overall health during treatments. She goes above and beyond the call of duty."

"I observed Julie counselling an 80 plus year old male patient. This was going to be his first treatment. He was by himself, he was anxious and somewhat confused. Here again, Julie's professionalism shone through. Her words to him were full of compassion and understanding as she explained what he was about to undergo. As I was sitting only 10 feet away, I wanted to say to this gentleman, not to worry, you are in good hands. Julie will look after you." 

Julie also played an integral role in setting up the Milestone Bell stationed at the bottom of the stairs on Level 1 at the Radiation Therapy Department at the Surrey centre. Patients and families can choose to ring the bell at any moment through their course of treatment. Ringing the bell means reaching important milestones in what is often a long and often very difficult journey for our patients and their families.

We had a chance to catch up with Julie on her award. Get to know Julie in the short Q&A below: 

1. How did you feel when it was announced that you're a BC Cancer Excellence Award winner?

I was completely shocked! I didn't actually believe it. I am so grateful to the patients who took the time to nominate me. It feels extra special coming from the people who we care for every single day.

2. What do you find most rewarding about your job?

I love the fact that I see my patients every day. We are able to make connections that are unique to our profession. We are there to see the highs and the lows and I admire their strength. I enjoy the people I work beside; they are some of the most kind, considerate and talented people I know.

3. What has been your proudest moment at BC Cancer?

I am most proud of getting the Milestone Bell at our centre. It brings me so much joy every time I hear it ring!

The BC Cancer Excellence Awards celebrate the passion and remarkable contributions of BC Cancer staff, and highlight some outstanding examples of how our people are making a difference for British Columbians facing cancer. For more information on our awards, visit bccancer.bc.ca/awards.